Black truffle Italian: what to know about this gourmet delicacy

In Italy, the black truffle Italian is considered a delicacy. However, the term black truffle is deceptive. There are multiple types of black truffles. These include the Black Summer Truffle, the Burgundy Truffle, Muscat Truffle, and the Tartufo di Bagnoli.

Let’s take a closer look at the black truffle Italian.

What makes Italian black truffles special?

Perhaps the most obvious reason that Italian black truffles are special is where they grow. They are generally found at the base of hazelnut or oak trees. The growing truffle absorbs flavour from the soil and the tree bark. That’s why black truffles have an earthy, slightly sweet flavour. But that’s not all.

Black truffles aren’t easy to find; they don’t stand out to the human eye. It can be very difficult to spot them. That’s why the professionals use truffle-hunting dogs. These dogs are highly trained; their only purpose is to sniff out truffles.

Of course, harvesting them at the right time helps.

The different types of black truffles in Italy

As mentioned, there are several types of Italian black truffle:

• Black Summer: This one has a black, warted appearance, similar to the skin of an alligator. However, it’s the tiny flecks that reflect light which really catch your eye.

• Burgundy: It’s no wonder these truffles are hard to find. They look like small rocks and have a rough surface. They have a brown exterior with diamond points on it.

• Muscat: This is one of the best-known Italian winter truffles. It grows at the base of oak, beech, and hazelnut trees. However, it needs a medium depth of earth and is happy on hills or even in the mountains.

• Tartufo di Norcia: These are named after the Perigold region in France. They are found at the base of hazelnut trees and oak trees. They have an earthy aroma and white veins on the outside of the truffles

• Tartufo di Bagnoli: This truffle grows well in limestone or clay. It can be found near oaks, maple trees, hazelnuts, and even beech. But it does have an unpleasant aroma.

• Nero Liscio truffle: This is very hard to find. It grows in Piedmont, near the white truffle. This type of truffle can survive extended droughts.

How black truffles compare to white truffles

There’s a significant difference in the taste of white truffles and black truffles, Italian or otherwise. Black truffles are known to have an earthy flavour. They have strong aromas and strong flavours; you may think of them as nutty, which is a desirable addition to many dishes.

Italians commonly use black truffles to improve the flavour of pasta dishes. White truffles also have a distinct aroma. However, it’s closer to the smell of garlic. The flavour isn’t as strong as black truffles. In fact, it’s a little on the sweet side.

That makes white truffles a great addition to a risotto or similar dishes.

When is black truffle season in Italy?

Black truffle, Italian-grown, is always harvested in the winter months. The exact timing depends on which type of truffle you want. But in general, you can find them and pick them between November and March. Interestingly, summer truffles are harvested between May and September, ensuring there is almost always some type of truffle available. As stated, the peak black truffle season varies according to the truffle. However, the best of the truffles are usually ready in January.

Peak harvesting times for black truffles

Let’s get a little more specific:

• Black Summer – harvested in summer months

• Burgundy – harvested September to late December

• Muscat - available January to March

• Tartufo di Norcia – December to MarchTartufo di Bagnoli – has a long harvesting season, from October to March

• Nero Liscio truffle – best harvested between August and September

As the best Italian black truffles are found in Italy, it makes sense to buy truffles from Italy. Simply look at availability in the black truffle season in Italy, and choose the ones you want.

Where to find the best truffles in Italy

In general, the best Italian white truffles are found in Piedmont, and the best black truffle, Italian, is in Norcia (Umbria). San Miniato in Tuscany also has some excellent black truffles.

Black truffle Italian salt: a gourmet touch

Tasting truffles for the first time will change you. It’s a delightful experience. However, no matter how great the truffle, it can be improved with a little black truffle Italian salt. Of course, the right crystal of salt with truffle can be used instead of truffles. It offers the same earthy saltiness and is much less effort to use.

It’s what all the gourmet chefs are doing and something you’ll find surprisingly easy to copy.

Summing Up

To get the most authentic taste, we recommend you buy truffles from Italy. You’ll notice the difference in the flavour.

Try the various options and find the ones you love the most. Just remember, choose an authentic Italian supplier and quality black truffle Italian salt. You’ll never forget your first experience.